

Delusional! Big Dreams, Real Stories with Michelle Coyle
Michelle Coyle
Delusional! Big Dreams, Real Stories with Michelle Coyle (formerly known as Seekers and Shifters) is a podcast about the blurry line between dreaming big and losing your mind. (Spoiler: anyone who has ever achieved anything probably did a little of both.)We sit down with founders, creatives, and visionaries who bet on themselves—often when no one else would. These are the behind-the-scenes stories of people who went for it anyway. The goal? To remind you that the path to something extraordinary almost always looks “delusional” at the start.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 12, 2025 • 47min
Faith Over Fear: How Dr. Pavini Moray Landed a Penguin Book Deal in 30 Days
Send us a textDr. Pavini Moray shut down a successful company not because it failed, but because it didn’t feel right. Dr. Pavini had no backup plan. Just a one-way ticket to Belize, and a wild idea to write a whole book in 30 DAYS.In this episode of Delusional, Dr. Pavini shares what happens when you walk away from everything on purpose. We talk about the identity crisis that comes with quitting, the freedom of collapse, and the spiritual clarity that helped turn failure into a Penguin Random House book deal with no agent, no connections, and no regrets.This is for every entrepreneur stuck in “should.” Dr. Pavini’s story will show you how powerful it is to choose alignment over approval and why that might be your biggest business move yet.Tune into the full episode of Delusional: Faith Over Fear: How Dr. Pavini Moray Landed a Penguin Book Deal in 30 DaysMichelle Coyle is a business expert, investor, and transformational trainer with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She believes you don’t have to choose between success and well-being because you can have both. With a mix of honesty, humor, and heart, Michelle guides leaders to step into who they really are and grow from that place. She’s the founder of BGSD Strategies and the Political Business Institute, where she supports people who want to make a real difference without losing themselves in the process. Michelle holds an MBA from Dartmouth and is trained in tools like NLP, Hypnosis, and Emotional Release to help others break free from what’s holding them back and create the life they know they’re meant for.Connect with Michelle Coyle:Website: https://michellecoyle.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelletoscale/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelletoscale/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeDr. Pavini Moray is a somatic educator, grief worker, and author helping people heal their nervous systems and reclaim embodied power. With a background in education, ritual, and trauma-informed leadership, Dr. Pavini guides changemakers through personal transformation with depth, compassion, and spiritual clarity. They are the founder of the Well Held community and author of How To Hold Power: A Somatic Approach to Becoming a Leader People Love and Respect. Their work bridges somatics, storytelling, and sacred practice to support liberation at every level.Explore more at pavinimoray.comConnect with Dr. Pavini Moray:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-pavini-moray/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pavinicoakwellmoray/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pavini.moray

Aug 5, 2025 • 40min
From Rejected Scripts to Disney and Hollywood Deals | Adam Gilad
Send us a textYou’ve Been Called Too Much? Good. You’re In the Right Place. This podcast is for the ones who’ve always felt a little out there. Too intense. Too emotional. Too ambitious. Too something. I’m Michelle Coyle, and in this pilot episode of Delusional, I’m talking with Emmy-nominated screenwriter, executive producer, and one of the most delightfully delusional humans I know, Adam Gilad.He shares how he went from suburban kid with a restless spirit to writing for X-Men, Iron Man, and Gargoyles and how the rejections, risks, and delusions played a bigger role than any traditional path ever could.If you’ve ever had a big dream and wondered if you were crazy for wanting it, this one’s for you.Tune into the full episode of Delusional: From Rejected Scripts to Disney and Hollywood Deals with Adam Gilad.Michelle Coyle is a business expert, investor, and transformational trainer with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She believes you don’t have to choose between success and well-being because you can have both. With a mix of honesty, humor, and heart, Michelle guides leaders to step into who they really are and grow from that place. She’s the founder of BGSD Strategies and the Political Business Institute, where she supports people who want to make a real difference without losing themselves in the process. Michelle holds an MBA from Dartmouth and is trained in tools like NLP, Hypnosis, and Emotional Release to help others break free from what’s holding them back and create the life they know they’re meant for.Connect with Michelle Coyle:Website: https://michellecoyle.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelletoscale/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelletoscale/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeAdam Gilad CEO of Gilad Creative Media, Inc. is a master creative and wordsmith and an Emmy Nominated Executive Producer and Writer with over 20 television shows and movies to his name. A Stanford University Humanities Center Research Fellow, specializing in technology and culture, Adam began his career on Wall St. and moved into the music industry as Managing Director of INXS at their height. He has served as an ideator and marketing consultant for multiple companies, including BMW Design, General Foods, McDonalds, Ogilvy Worldwide. He publishes The Co/investor Club Newsletter (www.CoinvestorClub.com) and runs Legacy House, the premium Writing Partnership Wervice for global visionaries. (www.AdamGilad.com/LegacyHouse)Connect with Adam Gilad:Website: https://www.adamgilad.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-gilad-26a25457/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamgiladtoday/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adam.gilad.7

Aug 5, 2025 • 47min
Sobriety, Resilience and Building a Multi-Million Dollar Agency | Tamara Thompson
Send us a textShe walked into a courtroom expecting to lose a year of her life. Instead, she walked out with a second chance she negotiated for herself.In this episode of Delusional, CEO Tamara Thompson of Broadcast Your Authority shares how that moment changed everything. After battling alcoholism, multiple DUIs, and 90 days in jail, she chose a different path. She went back to school, discovered filmmaking, and used that turning point to rebuild her life from the ground up.Fifteen years later, Tamara is sober, has built a multimillion‑dollar creative agency, invested in more than 30 companies, and created a life filled with purpose.We talk about leadership, pushing boundaries, and why she believes that “Impossible” is just the starting line. If you’ve ever been told you can’t, this episode will make you question what else is possible.Tune in to the full episode of Delusional: Sobriety, Resilience and Building a Multi-Million Dollar Agency with Tamara ThompsonMichelle Coyle is a business expert, investor, and transformational trainer with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She believes you don’t have to choose between success and well-being because you can have both. With a mix of honesty, humor, and heart, Michelle guides leaders to step into who they really are and grow from that place. She’s the founder of BGSD Strategies and the Political Business Institute, where she supports people who want to make a real difference without losing themselves in the process. Michelle holds an MBA from Dartmouth and is trained in tools like NLP, Hypnosis, and Emotional Release to help others break free from what’s holding them back and create the life they know they’re meant for.Connect with Michelle Coyle:Website: https://michellecoyle.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelletoscale/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelletoscale/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeTamara Thompson is a multi-million-dollar agency owner, investor in over 30 companies, host of the Women Unlocking Wealth podcast, and the founder of Broadcast Your Authority, a leading podcast and content marketing agency. Through Broadcast Your Authority, she helps entrepreneurs accelerate their podcast’s growth with a tailored done-for-you solution to reach their ideal prospects. Her agency goes beyond production, it’s a full marketing strategy, a growth plan, and a partnership dedicated to building brands that matter. Working with hundreds of podcasts weekly, Tamara and her team elevate voices into movements, transforming content into connections and capturing audiences across every platform.Learn more at broadcastyourauthority.comConnect with Tamara Thompson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarathompson-serioustakepro/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamarathompsonofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirectorTamaraTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@broadcastyourauthorityTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tamarathompsonofficial

Aug 5, 2025 • 50min
From Disney Parks to Digital CEO | Angele Black
Send us a textWhat if the craziest thing you could do... is exactly what changes everything?Angele Black didn’t have a job, a place to live, or a backup plan. Just a Disney annual pass, one duffel bag, and the kind of delusion it takes to look your future in the face and say, “I’m not going home.”In this episode of Delusional, I talk with Angele about cold motel rooms, earning barely $7 an hour, and the messy, real path from theme park performer to six-figure entrepreneur. We get into what rejection really feels like, how to build a personal brand when nobody’s watching, and why delusion isn’t something to fix, it’s something to fuel.If you’ve ever been told to play it safe, stay small, or wait your turn, this episode is your permission slip to do the opposite. Tune into the full episode of Delusional: From Disney Parks to Digital CEO with Angele Black.Michelle Coyle is a business expert, investor, and transformational trainer with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She believes you don’t have to choose between success and well-being because you can have both. With a mix of honesty, humor, and heart, Michelle guides leaders to step into who they really are and grow from that place. She’s the founder of BGSD Strategies and the Political Business Institute, where she supports people who want to make a real difference without losing themselves in the process. Michelle holds an MBA from Dartmouth and is trained in tools like NLP, Hypnosis, and Emotional Release to help others break free from what’s holding them back and create the life they know they’re meant for.Connect with Michelle Coyle:Website: https://michellecoyle.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelletoscale/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelletoscale/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeAngele Black is the founder of The Social Growth Lab, with 11 years of experience in social media management and strategy. She specializes in helping high-ticket coaches amplify their digital presence, attract ideal clients, and showcase their expertise online. As a strategic introvert, she combines analytical thinking with creative content strategies to build sustainable systems, create authentic growth, and transform digital presence into authority. Get FREE marketing resources: https://www.skool.com/social-growth-lab-6264/aboutConnect with Angele Black:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angeleblack/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialwithangele/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realangeleblack/videos

Aug 5, 2025 • 47min
The Secrets to Building $100M High-Ticket Coaching Empire | Russ Ruffino
Send us a textThink you missed your shot? Russ Ruffino didn’t even start until he was 31. He was broke, bartending and convinced he had blown it. Then, one terrible birthday in Vegas and a random copy of The 4 Hour Workweek sent him in a completely different direction.In this pilot episode of Delusional, Russ tells me how he went from pouring drinks to figuring out online marketing, why affiliate marketing did not stick, and how he ended up building Clients on Demand which is now a coaching company making hundreds of millions of dollars.We also get into the things he wishes he had not ignored for so long like mindset, trust and how to stand out in a world where everyone is selling something.Tune in to the full episode of Delusional: The Secrets to Building $100M High-Ticket Coaching Empire with Russ RuffinoMichelle Coyle is a business expert, investor, and transformational trainer with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She believes you don’t have to choose between success and well-being because you can have both. With a mix of honesty, humor, and heart, Michelle guides leaders to step into who they really are and grow from that place. She’s the founder of BGSD Strategies and the Political Business Institute, where she supports people who want to make a real difference without losing themselves in the process. Michelle holds an MBA from Dartmouth and is trained in tools like NLP, Hypnosis, and Emotional Release to help others break free from what’s holding them back and create the life they know they’re meant for.Connect with Michelle Coyle:Website: https://michellecoyle.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelletoscale/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelletoscale/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeRussel Ruffino is the founder and CEO of Clients on Demand. They help coaches, experts and speakers turn their expertise into high-ticket online workshops that sell for $5,000 - $15,000 or more. Russ has personally done over $100M in high ticket coaching sales, and his clients have collectively used his strategies to close well over a billion dollars in high-ticket sales. If you’re looking to maximize your income, freedom and your impact, Russ Ruffino is the one to follow.Learn more at: https://clientsondemand.live/Connect with Russel Ruffino:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russruffino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russruffino/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/russruffinoYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@RussRuffinoX: https://x.com/RussruffinoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Russruffino

Mar 11, 2025 • 49min
Finding Fulfillment
Send us a textWelcome to another episode of "Seekers & Shifters," where we dive deep into the stories of transformation and resilience. In today's episode, Michelle sits down with the inspiring Erica Carrico, a life purpose and business coach who has turned her life's trials into triumphs. From battling cancer as a young mother to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Erica's journey is a testament to the power of aligning one's life and business with true purpose. Tune in as we explore how Erica overcame her struggles to build a seven-figure business and find fulfillment, all while navigating personal growth, family dynamics, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply seeking inspiration to make a change, Erica's story is sure to motivate you to take action toward living a life true to your purpose. Join us for an enlightening conversation full of insights, laughter, and wisdom. Enjoy the episode!Timestamps:00:00 "Transforming Paths After Cancer Diagnosis"04:17 "Align Work with Life Purpose"08:03 "Purpose Over Wealth for Fulfillment"12:25 Business Growth as Personal Therapy14:39 Entrepreneurship's Marital Strain17:18 Dating and Career Compatibility20:02 Inspiring Biographies and Determination24:43 Building a Team for Work-Life Balance27:25 Entrepreneurial Hiring Challenges29:36 Wrong Hire Regret33:00 Aspiring for Larger Audiences37:08 Diving Deep into Business Coaching41:13 Dealing with Family and Jealousy44:46 Chasing Money Leads to Misery45:57 "Strategic Client Selection Importance"48:47 Erica Carico Online ResourcesConnect with our guest:Instagram: @ericalynncarricoFacebook: @ericalcarricoWebsite: www.ericacarrico.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@EricaCarricoFree Training - Six Figures without Social MediaConnect with MichelleInstagram: @michelletoscale Facebook:www.facebook.com/michellelareeTiktok: @michelletoscaleSubscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway from this powerful discussion. Disclaimer: Seekers & Shifters acknowledges the privilege associated with engaging in personal growth activities and encourages listeners to consider their own circumstances and resources when embarking on a journey of self discovery.

Mar 4, 2025 • 43min
Navigating Rough Waters
Send us a textIn this episode of Seekers & Shifters, Michelle sits down with Jenn Gray, an expert in mindset notion and human design, to explore the powerful themes of life transitions, personal growth, and the profound impact of our beliefs on creating our reality. Both having navigated the challenging waters of divorce and significant life changes, Michelle and Jenn dive deep into discussions about the fear of change, the art of manifesting desired outcomes, and the importance of questioning limiting beliefs. This episode is particularly powerful for those standing at a crossroads, contemplating major life decisions, and seeking guidance on shaping a future aligned with their true potential. Get ready for a transformative conversation filled with insights and actionable advice for manifesting the life you desire.Timestamps:00:00 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs05:06 Manifestation and Mindful Thoughts08:40 Clear Decision-Making in Relationships10:28 "Understanding Different Decision-Making Authorities"14:49 Identifying Limiting Beliefs19:09 Creative Home Financing Challenges21:23 Uncertain Entrepreneurial Journeys25:59 Teaching Gratitude Through Life Lessons28:03 Rejecting Limiting Beliefs30:28 Universal Impact of Trauma36:37 Embracing Humanity in AI Age38:12 Building Business Beyond Social Media41:09 "Reviving In-Person Connections"Connect with our guest:Website: www.jenngray.comCheck out Jenn’s Podcast HERE: Connect with Michelle:Instagram: @michelletoscale Facebook:@MichelleTiktok: @michelletoscaleSubscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway from this powerful discussion. Disclaimer: Seekers & Shifters acknowledges the privilege associated with engaging in personal growth activities and encourages listeners to consider their own circumstances and resources when embarking on a journey of self discovery.

Feb 25, 2025 • 43min
The Power of Self-Expression
Send us a textIn this episode of Seekers & Shifters, host Michelle welcomes guest, Mermaid Chè Monique, for an inspiring conversation about radical visibility and empowering self-expression. As a professional mermaid, Chè shatters stereotypes by celebrating body positivity and inclusivity through her unique platform, Society of Fat Mermaids. Together, Michelle and Chè dive into the world of mermaids, burlesque, and entrepreneurship, offering a refreshing perspective on personal growth and mindset. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with laughter, motivational insights, and the power of just showing up as your true self. Whether you're looking for a new wave of inspiration or curious about the magical mermaid world, this episode is sure to leave you motivated to embrace your authentic self and do the weird shit you've always dreamed of.Timestamps:00:00 Mermaid Identity and Body Perception04:14 Mer-World Fame and Documentary Ethics08:40 Empowerment through Self-Initiative10:56 Building Community Through Technology14:45 Life as a Choose-Your-Adventure17:46 Judgment and Liberation Journey19:34 Challenging Fat Bias Narratives25:12 Fear of Judgment in Healthcare27:38 Anti-Capitalist Sentiment Explained29:45 "Over-Identifying with Oppression"33:25 Grief Shopping with Family38:18 Unconventional Business Paths41:37 Mermaid Advocate's Inspiring Story42:51 Support Our Inspiring Mer CommunityConnect with our guest:Website: Facebook: @mermaidchemonique @societyoffatmermaidsInstagram: @mermaidchemonique @societyoffatmermaidsTiktok: @mermaidchemonique. Youtube: @mermaidchemonique @societyoffatmermaidsConnect with MichelleInstagram: @michelletoscale Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeTiktok: @michelletoscaleSubscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway from this powerful discussion. Disclaimer: Seekers & Shifters acknowledges the privilege associated with engaging in personal growth activities and encourages listeners to consider their own circumstances and resources when embarking on a journey of self discovery.

Feb 18, 2025 • 45min
The Power of Routine
Send us a textIn this empowering episode of Seekers & Shifters, Michelle sits down with her old friend Thomas JT Marbury to navigate the journey of personal growth and leadership. JT, a retired military officer with over two decades of experience, shares invaluable insights on how to rise from the depths of life's challenges with resilience and determination. He opens up about his struggles with depression, anxiety, and the transformative power of self-care and discipline. As JT discusses his journey, he sheds light on the crucial role of habits in achieving success, the importance of men embracing vulnerability, and the profound impact of supportive leadership. Join us as we explore the path to becoming better versions of ourselves, learn to control what we can, and ultimately, discover the strength in embracing our authentic selves. Whether you're at rock bottom or simply seeking ways to elevate your life, this episode promises to inspire and guide you toward a brighter tomorrow.Timestamps:00:00 Military Leadership and Resilience Tips05:31 "You Control Your You"09:28 Habits Anchor Through Life's Chaos12:53 Invest in Your Health Fitness14:49 "Five Whys for Accountability"19:39 Optimal Meal Timing for Blood Sugar22:40 Healthy Snacking Transformation26:38 "Confronting Health Through Habits"27:31 "Why Framework"31:16 Overcoming Struggles: A Path Forward35:17 Spirit Journeys and Life Lessons38:49 "Embracing Therapy's Insights"41:24 Celebrating Men's Diverse Contributions44:09 Unstoppable Through Learning and EmpathyConnect with MichelleInstagram: @michelletoscale Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/michellelareeTiktok: @michelletoscaleSubscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway from this powerful discussion. Disclaimer: Seekers & Shifters acknowledges the privilege associated with engaging in personal growth activities and encourages listeners to consider their own circumstances and resources when embarking on a journey of self discovery.

Feb 12, 2025 • 47min
Radical Visibility
Bijal Patel, owner of Launch, a brand agency, transforms small businesses into thriving brands. In this engaging chat, she combines manifestation and entrepreneurship, sharing insights on building a personal brand with confidence. Bijal discusses embracing radical vulnerability and authenticity in the digital realm, balancing personal growth with business success. They explore the challenges of visibility, societal pressures around self-image, and the importance of relatable role models for women. Tune in for tips on manifesting your reality!